Mother’s Day Sunday – May 10 Devotions on Enjoying Life and Reducing Stress

Happy Mother’s Day if you’re a Mom! I hope you were able to spend time with your Mom, if she’s still with you–or to spend time with your own kids, or visit them, depending on their age and your relationship with them. My Mom passed away in 2011, and my own kids live in three other states, so it’s not convenient or easy to get together, unfortunately. At least I heard from all four, and even got flowers from my oldest daughter and from my darling hubby, Dave.

So onto Sunday’s devotions. Remember, too , you can read Psalms and Proverbs to accompany each day on my page, Daily Scripture Readings. AND check out my new page, where you can have an opportunity to put compassion into action–whether through praying, sharing the linked causes, and/or donating.

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“Jesus actually said, ‘I came that you might have and enjoy your life’ (see John 10:10). We need enjoyment. Without it, life is unbalanced, and a door is opened for Satan to devour us (see 1 Peter 5:8). The joy of the Lord is our strength (see Nehemiah 8:10). There is a time to work and a time to play, a time to cry and a time to laugh (see Ecclesiastes 3:1-8).

Make sure you are not denying your legitimate needs. It is good to help others; as Christians, it is our call. But it is not wrong to do things for ourselves. Be sure you take time for yourself. Take time to do things you enjoy.”

–Joyce Meyer in “New Day New You”

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“In today’s world, stress is a normal part of everyday life. God created you to withstand normal amounts of pressure and tension, and if you keep stress within reasonable limits, there is no problem. But if you don’t, the trouble begins.

Many stressful situations are unavoidable, but too often you cause yourself extra stress by working too hard and too long, not eating and sleeping properly, and getting so involved in activities–even good works–that you exceed wise limits. If you keep adding to that mental and emotional stress, you get into trouble.

If you are pushing yourself beyond reasonable limits, it’s time to remember that the Holy Spirit lives in you. You owe it to Him and to yourself to let Him help you recognize and stay within your limits. Don’t burn OUT. Burn ON!” –Joyce Meyer in “Ending Your Day Right”

–Joyce Meyer in “Ending Your Day Right”

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-1- Oh my, I can definitely relate to both of these devotional thoughts today! I so often feel guilty if I take time to do things for myself. I guess there’s a balance, though, between being selfish and being balanced between doing things for others and also enjoying doing things we enjoy for ourselves.

-2- Yikes. I am so guilty of this; taking on too much, getting too stressed, NOT getting enough sleep, not eating right…yes, time for more changes! I think I’m going to be forced into some after my surgery in four days!

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So what are YOUR thoughts?

Do you regularly take time to enjoy yourself, spending time on things you like to do?

Does this second devotional describe you? Do you tend to get overwhelmed with stress and not take care of yourself properly?

Happy Mothers day to you! My mom left me way to young back in 2008 but I think about her everyday as I’m sure you do too. I think every mom should take a step back and think about the message today as well. Take care of yourself, make yourself happy and cut back on the stress!Misty Spears recently posted..It’s Launch Day for The Renter’s Decorating Guide